Pelicans' Evans, Cole to make season debuts vs. Grizzlies

At long last, the New Orleans Pelicans will have their full complement of backcourt players available Tuesday, as Tyreke Evans and Norris Cole are set to make their season debuts.

Evans announced his return to the lineup earlier in the day on Instagram, saying that he's "not 100 percent," but still ready for his debut.

Evans had been sidelined while recovering from offseason knee surgery, while Cole was out with a high ankle sprain.

Their return to the lineup will finally stabilize a Pelicans' perimeter rotation that has seen the likes of Ish Smith, Nate Robinson, Toney Douglas, and even Jimmer Fredette log time in the backcourt.

Evans' return, in particular, will be crucial, as he was instrumental to the Pelicans' playoff run last season. He averaged 16.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game and took over playmaking responsibilities at a time of dire need.

It's unclear, however, which position the multi-talented Evans will play. Cole and Jrue Holiday will likely split time at point guard, while Eric Gordon is entrenched at shooting guard. That means Evans might return to the small forward role, where he struggled two seasons ago.